Arizona Biltmore, Phoenix

Known as the “Jewel of the Desert” since its 1929 debut, this storied landmark sparkles anew after a thorough revamp. The 740 guest rooms’ soothing neutrals and warm wood accents emulate architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s knack for deftly bringing the outdoors in, while the redesigned spa, pool cabanas, and common areas chicly reference the seductive style of its early years.

Courtesy Hotel d’Angleterre

Hotel d’Angleterre, Copenhagen

A two-year, $70-million-plus facelift, which involved expert restorers from the National Museum of Denmark, has given this grande dame of northern Europe new life. Ninety guest rooms, each unique, seamlessly marry old and new, while artwork spanning Winterhalter to Warhol and abundant floral arrangements provide duly crowning touches. The lushly refurbished, Michelin-starred restaurant, Marchal, and buzzing Balthazar champagne bar draw Copenhagen’s glamorous set.

Courtesy The Jefferson

The Jefferson, Washington, D.C.

This Beaux Arts landmark has re-emerged as the capital’s premier address thanks to a top-to-bottom overhaul. Period antiques and documents signed by Thomas Jefferson grace its 95 rooms, and a gorgeously restored 1923 skylight, hidden for decades, streams sunlight through the lobby. Complimentary international calls, 24-hour butler service, and custom bow ties on request make guests feel fittingly presidential.

The Lanesborough, London

A meticulous 18-month overhaul by world-renowned interior designer Alberto Pinto has restored this standalone property to its enviable status as one of London’s most revered Regency landmarks. Its 93 rooms marry sumptuous decor with high-tech touches like Sony tablets to adjust lighting and temperature, and the richly redone dining room of world-class restaurant Céleste (pictured), draws well-heeled guests from morning til night.

Raffles Hotel, Singapore

One of the world’s last great 19th-century hotels, this Singaporean stunner blends luxury, history, and colonial design to intoxicating effect. Fourteen-foot ceilings and elegant period furnishings exude the romance of the Far East, while legendary 24-hour butler service leaves guests wanting for nothing. Last renovated fully in 1991, the iconic property continues to improve with age–adding new suites and keeping a multitude of dining options as enticing as ever.

Rajmahal Palace, Jaipur

This extraordinarily restored palace-turned-hotel in the heart of Rajasthan’s bustling “Pink City” notably remains a residence of Jaipur’s honorary royal family. Dazzling custom-designed wallpapers and lush fabrics create a feast for the senses, enveloping the 14 grand guest rooms in a riot of captivating colors and historic motifs that, along with myriad antiques and enchanting public spaces, transport guests to a bygone era.

Courtesy Singita Boulders Lodge

Singita Boulders Lodge, Sabi Sand Reserve, South Africa

Perched on the banks of the Sand River adjacent to Kruger National Park, this iconic lodge’s 2014 redesign takes cues from nature to underscore its continuous connection with the surrounding landscape. The twelve suites’ artfully pared-down interiors feature fossilized tree stumps and other found objects, and common areas moved closer to the river allow guests to fully revel in the incomparable setting.